Zeaxanthin Boosts Cancer Immunotherapy Efficacy

Researchers at the University of Chicago, led by Chen Jing, have discovered a new role for Zeaxanthin, a plant-based compound, in boosting anti-tumor immunity. Published in Cell Reports, the study found that Zeaxanthin enhances the activity of CD8+ T cells, which are crucial for fighting cancer. It stabilizes the T-cell receptor complex, leading to stronger internal signaling, increased T-cell activation, boosted cytokine production, and improved tumor-killing ability. In mouse studies, Zeaxanthin slowed tumor growth, with a more pronounced effect when combined with immune checkpoint inhibitors. It also enhanced human T cells' ability to destroy melanoma, multiple myeloma, and glioblastoma cells in laboratory experiments. This discovery suggests Zeaxanthin, an inexpensive and widely available supplement, could complement existing cancer immunotherapies. The research was supported by grants from the United States===National Institutes of Health, the Ludwig Center for Cancer Research, and the Harborview Medical Center. Clinical trials are the next step to confirm these findings in humans.